San Diego 
Regulars at Perry’s Cafe arrived in droves as usual Saturday morning only to learn that the popular breakfast eatery was closed due to a late-night fire.

The blaze caused an estimated $300,000 damage to the restaurant on Pacific Highway near Taylor Street, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department officials said. The cause is still under investigation.

The cafe was closed when a fire started in the roof shortly after 10 p.m. Friday. The flames were contained in about 20 minutes after badly damaging the kitchen.

The old-school diner, which opened in 1985, is known for its huge portions, reasonable prices and seasoned waitresses, bus staff and cooks. There is a second location in El Cajon.

Locals expecting breakfast arrived Saturday surprised to find the parking lot empty. They took one look at the boarded-up front door with “fire damage” scrawled across it and were forced to find another spot to eat.

Ocean Beach resident Shannon Franklin was planning on taking her husband for his first breakfast at the cafe Saturday and was disappointed it was closed.

“This place is awesome,” Franklin said. “A lot of locals come here. A lot of people are going to be bummed.”

The owners could not be reached for comment. It is unknown when the restaurant is expected to reopen.